As the primary broadcast partner for the NHL in Canada, Sportsnet is the go-to destination for hockey fans. However, navigating the various subscription options and understanding regional blackouts can be confusing. This guide breaks down the different ways you can watch NHL games on Sportsnet, ensuring you choose the right option for your needs visit Visit watch.sportsnet.ca/activate.
1. Through a TV Provider
The most traditional way to watch NHL games is through a cable or satellite television subscription that includes Sportsnet channels. If your TV package includes Sportsnet, you can watch games live on your television.
Additionally, your TV provider credentials can be used to sign in to the Sportsnet+ streaming service (via the Sportsnet app or website). This allows you to stream the same channels you have in your TV package on various devices, such as your smartphone, tablet, or computer, at no extra cost.
2. The Sportsnet+ Streaming Service
For those without a cable subscription, Sportsnet offers a direct-to-consumer streaming service called Sportsnet+. This service is broken down into two main tiers, which are crucial for understanding which games you can watch.
- Sportsnet+ Standard: This tier is designed for fans who want to watch their local, in-market team. It provides access to all national NHL games, including Scotiabank Wednesday Night Hockey and Hockey Night in Canada on Saturdays. It also includes all regional games for the team in your specific broadcast territory (e.g., if you are in Alberta, you can watch all regional Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers games).
- Sportsnet+ Premium: This tier is essential for out-of-market fans. It includes everything in the Standard package, plus over 1,000 out-of-market NHL games. This is the equivalent of the old NHL LIVE or NHL Centre Ice packages, allowing you to follow teams that are not in your local broadcast region.
3. The Sportsnet Prime Video Channel
If you are an Amazon Prime member, you can subscribe to the Sportsnet channel as a Prime Video add-on. This subscription provides access to the live feeds of the main Sportsnet channels (East, Ontario, West, Pacific), Sportsnet ONE, and Sportsnet 360.
However, there are important limitations:
- It is a separate subscription: You cannot use your existing Sportsnet+ or TV provider login to access Sportsnet on Prime Video. It is a distinct subscription billed through your Amazon account.
- Regional blackouts apply: This channel is subject to the same regional restrictions as other services. You can only watch national games and the regional games for the team(s) in your broadcast area. Out-of-market games are not included with the Sportsnet Prime Video Channel.
Understanding Regional Blackouts
The most common point of confusion for fans is regional blackouts. These are mandated by the NHL to protect local broadcast rights.
- National Games: These games are broadcast across Canada, and anyone with Sportsnet access can watch them.
- Regional Games: Most games are designated as regional broadcasts. Sportsnet holds the regional rights for the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, and Toronto Maple Leafs. To watch a regional game, you must be physically located within that team’s broadcast territory. If you are outside the territory, the game will be blacked out unless you have a Sportsnet+ Premium subscription. You can use the NHL Game Finder tool on the Sportsnet website to see which games are available in your location.
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Exclusive Monday Night Games on Prime Video
Beginning with the 2024-2025 NHL season, Prime Monday Night Hockey games are broadcast exclusively on Amazon Prime Video in Canada. These games are not available on Sportsnet, requiring a separate Prime Video subscription to watch.
